This hefty compendium underscores the old saw about the value of pictures. Heavens, dogs are lovely, aren’t they? Flipping through the pages rewards the reader with information on more than 400 breeds, crossbreeds and “unknowns,” in all their sizes, shapes and colors—an exploration that speaks not only to the length of our association with dogs, but just how much we’ve influenced their development. Readers are introduced to many breeds not at all well-known in this country, including the pert little Kooikerhondje from the Netherlands and the Slovakian Rough-haired Pointer, a breed that, it is said, “thrives on company and activity.” Both of these breeds, and many others too, look like charming mixes, which is how “pure” breeds started, after all.

We also learn interesting facts about each breed. For example, the Lucas Terrier is a cross created by Sir Jocelyn Lucas, who—unhappy with the way his breed, the Sealyham, was being modified by show-ring standards—bravely decided “to outcross his dogs with a Norfolk Terrier” to add more vigor. Then there’s the New Zealand Huntaway, who “lacks a breed standard”; this mix of German Shepherd, Rottweiler and Border Collie makes for a very handsome dog.

Along with stunning photos, the book also has helpful “care and training” basics, which, luckily, employ positive techniques, as well as amazing illustrations of canine anatomy and interesting dog-culture coverage of canine evolution, art, lore and history. An engrossing and entertaining book for the whole family to savor.